NEWS: The Nord Stream is a system of undersea natural gas pipelines connecting Russia directly to Germany through the Baltic Sea, bypassing transit countries.

ABOUT NORD STREAM

• Consists of Nord Stream 1 (operational since 2011) and Nord Stream 2.
• Each project has two parallel pipelines, making four pipeline lines in total.
• Nord Stream 1 connects Vyborg (Russia) to Lubmin near Greifswald (Germany).
• Passes through the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of Russia, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, and Germany, and the territorial waters of Russia, Denmark, and Germany.
• In Germany, it connects to the OPAL and NEL gas pipeline networks.

SIGNIFICANCE

• For Europe: Ensures a reliable supply of natural gas for heating, industries, and power generation, especially during winters.
• For Germany: Supports its energy transition after reducing dependence on coal and nuclear power.
• For Russia: Secures a stable export market, increases energy revenues, bypasses transit countries, and strengthens geopolitical influence.
• Economic Advantage: Reduces transit costs and risks by providing a direct Russia–Germany gas route.

KEY FACTS

• Russia supplied around 40% of Europe's natural gas before recent geopolitical disruptions.
• Russia possesses the world's largest natural gas reserves.
• Oil and natural gas contribute roughly 40% of Russia's government revenue.